October 31, 2024
11
mins read
Gelato prides itself on being the largest print-on-demand (POD) network. With production activities in 32 locations worldwide, users can benefit from fast global order fulfillment.
Although the Gelato print-on-demand solution offers high-quality products, not everyone has something positive to say about it. For starters, Gelato isn’t the cheapest in the industry, and customer support is only available via chat or email.
To make things worse, the platform has limited product customization options. So, if you’re dissatisfied or want to try a similar POD platform, you’ve come to the right place.
This post covers the top 10 Gelato alternatives for your print-on-demand business in 2024. We’ve included everything from their key features and pros and cons to pricing.
Let’s get started.
Gelato may have established itself as a leader in the print-on-demand industry, but several reasons may lead you to explore other options.
Here are some key reasons to try Gelato alternatives:
Also Read:
While there are numerous platforms like Gelato or even better ones, scouting for them can be time-consuming.
So, we've put together a list of the best 10 Gelato alternatives you can consider for your print-on-demand business.
Image via Podbase
When it comes to selling custom products without worrying about inventory, you can count on Podbase. This Gelato alternative stands out for its easy integration with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce.
Podbase offers tech accessories, wall art, and drinkware. However, its major products are in the tech niche, offering early access to models yet to be released.
You can sign up for free on Podbase and start selling immediately. Prices vary by product.
Podbase is ideal for content creators, artists, and designers looking to monetize their designs. It’s also suitable for online brands and entrepreneurs who want a user-friendly POD platform with global shipping capabilities.
Image via Printify
Printify is a leading print-on-demand platform that enables users to create and sell custom products. It has an extensive network of print providers, allowing users to focus on creating and selling while it handles production and shipping.
Whether you sell on eBay, Shopify, or TikTok, you can connect your Printify account with various marketplaces and ecommerce stores. You can also connect to your own custom store using the Printify API (application programming interface).
You can start using Printify for free, then upgrade to the paid plans as you grow:
Image via Printify
Printify is a great option for small businesses offering custom products without stocking. It’s also ideal for those who want a wide selection of products and global shipping options.
Image via Printful
Printful offers a world of possibilities for turning your creative visions into reality. As one of the Gelato alternatives, the platform offers vast customization options to personalize products and create a cohesive brand experience.
It seamlessly integrates with platforms like Squarespace, Amazon, and WooCommerce and simplifies the print-on-demand process.
Printful offers a free plan with the essential features you need to run a successful print-on-demand business. However, you can become a member to access more perks:
Image via Printful
Printful is best suited for brands prioritizing product quality and wanting to offer a personalized experience for their customers. It’s also ideal for ecommerce businesses looking to scale up without bothering about inventory management.
Image via Spreadconnect
With over 20 years of experience, Spreadconnect (formerly known as SPOD) is among the top Gelato alternatives, assuring users of high-quality printing. The platform promises to deliver products within 48 hours—one of the fastest on our list.
Spreadconnect offers access to marketplaces and ecommerce platforms like Shopify and Squarespace. Users can create unlimited custom products without worrying about warehousing.
Spreadconnect offers a free account and only charges shipping fees and order value.
Spreadconnect is best for sellers looking for quick fulfillment, especially those targeting customers in Canada, Australia, the US, and EU countries.
Image via Redbubble
Redbubble started as a platform for independent artists to monetize their art. Today, it's connecting several thousands of designers and artists with millions of fans across the globe.
The platform handles everything from production to shipping, allowing creatives to focus on their designs. With over 70 products, including pillowcases, stickers, mugs, and sweaters, Redbubble gives users access to one-of-a-kind designs.
Redbubble classifies seller accounts based on profile and art quality:
Only the Standard account tier is charged a flat fee based on monthly earnings.
Image via Redbubble
Redbubble is ideal for artists looking for a high-traffic site to sell their designs. It's also a great place if you're not interested in dealing with the complexities of setting up and running an online store.
Image via Zazzle
Zazzle is a popular on-demand marketplace where users can create art, designs, and photography on products. With limitless customization options, Zazzle stands out as one of our top Gelato alternatives for print-on-demand businesses.
Similar to Redbubble, Zazzle is a marketplace, so it doesn't integrate with platforms like Shopify and Etsy.
Zazzle allows you to set up your store at no cost. However, it collects a portion of your sales based on your pre-set royalty percentage.
If your target customers are people looking for personalized gift items, Zazzle is your best bet. It has a dedicated gift items section for grandparents, kids, bridesmaids, teachers, and much more.
Image via Society6
Society6 is another online marketplace for artists to showcase their designs on different products and get paid. It feels like another Redbubble as every purchase pays an artist.
The difference is that Society6 focuses more on home decor and you don’t have to be an artist to sell. Its wholesale and trade programs provide access to the entire Society6 collection from independent artists.
Society6 has a free plan, allowing artists to earn 10% of their net sales. The paid plans offer more price control:
Image via Society6
Society6 is ideal for artists, hobbyists, and designers looking for a platform that provides exposure. However, you should be careful not to trade your margins for convenience, especially with the free account.
Image via Teelaunch
Boasting 75 years of experience, Teelaunch is one of the largest print-on-demand platforms, bringing it to our list of top Gelato alternatives. It has production facilities in the US, UK, Australia, and the European Union, enabling faster delivery.
From the name, you may think only T-shirts are sold on the platform. Surprisingly, it offers several product categories, such as kitchenware, home goods, and jewelry.
Teelaunch doesn’t charge a subscription fee. Sellers set their retail price, and Teelaunch deducts the base price and shipping fees after sales.
Teelaunch is ideal for small businesses looking for low prices and product variety. It’s also great for selling corporate merch — business cards, notebooks, mouse pads, sweatshirts.
Image via Spreadshirt
Spreadshirt is an online marketplace with over 100K daily visitors. This platform welcomes creatives looking to sell their designs with zero risks.
Spreadshirt offers bulk discounts on orders with as low as six items, which makes it stand out among other Gelato alternatives.
Signing up on Spreadshirt is free, and the platform pays you a commission for any product sold using your designs.
Spreadshirt is perfect for creators who want to focus on designing and selling custom products while leveraging an established marketplace.
Image via Print Aura
Print Aura is a white-label print-on-demand platform for selling t-shirts. However, you can find other product categories, such as mugs, bags, and phone cases.
The platform ships to any location in the world and guarantees defect-free products. Print Aura’s customer support is responsive and a comprehensive blog with guides and design inspirations.
Print Aura is completely free — no membership fees.
If you're seeking Gelato alternatives with more customizations and minimal upfront costs, try Print Aura. Its white-label service and integration with ecommerce stores make it a great option for designers, small businesses, and enterprises.
Now that we've explored the 10 best Gelato alternatives, let's talk about how you can select one that's best for your business. You must understand that certain key factors will play a role in your decision-making. Let’s discuss the most important ones.
Start by checking out the product categories to ensure they have the products you want to sell. You should also order a sample to test the products’ quality. Platforms like Spreadshirt allow you to order test samples and return them within 30 days.
Look for print-on-demand networks with nearby production facilities as this can reduce the waiting time. Some Gelato alternatives like Podbase can deliver products worldwide, but you'll get the product within 3-16 days via economy delivery.
Also, the POD network should provide order tracking and delivery updates. You should also check whether they provide shipping discounts on bulk orders to reduce costs.
Although most platforms on our list integrate with ecommerce stores and online marketplaces, some don't. For instance, Redbubble, Zazzle, and Society6 are online marketplaces that don't offer third-party integrations.
Another thing to consider is whether the platform has design tools for customizing products, including a mockup generator. You can find these features on our top three Gelato alternatives — Podbase, Printify, and Printful.
Create a comprehensive cost analysis that includes subscription fees, shipping costs, and base prices of your core products. Gelato alternatives like Printful and Printify offer better margins through membership benefits.
Platforms like Printful and Print Aura offer extensive product customization, white-label services, and branded packaging options. The ability to add custom labels and personalized packing slips helps create a cohesive brand experience.
Also, some Gelato alternatives like Society6 and Teelaunch allow you to set your own profit margins, giving you more control over your business model.
Take time to research the responsiveness and accessibility of the customer support team. You'll need prompt assistance when issues arise. You can read reviews from other sellers, noting how they handled defective products and returns.
Gelato may be famous in the print-on-demand industry, but the alternatives we've discussed offer more features that may suit your business better. For instance, Podbase has specialized tech accessories, while Printful offers extensive customization options.
Also, Redbubble and Zazzle are artist-focused marketplaces, while Teelaunch boasts competitive pricing. Each platform on our list brings unique strengths to the table.
It's not okay to settle for a popular platform; it's about finding what fits your business. Don't be afraid to experiment with different platforms through small test runs before committing. The insights gained from these trials can be invaluable in making an informed decision.
Pay attention to not just the platform's features but also the quality of its products, customer service responsiveness, and ability to meet your delivery timelines. Whether you prioritize global reach, pricing, or customization options, there are Gelato alternatives for your POD business in 2024 and beyond.
Q1. What is the alternative to Gelato?
A. The Gelato alternatives are:
Q2. How to migrate your store from Gelato to Podbase?
A. Follow these steps to migrate your store from Gelato to Podbase:
Q3. Is print-on-demand profitable?
A. Yes, print-on-demand (POD) can be profitable, especially with low upfront costs and no need for inventory management.
Your profit depends on retail price, product demand, and your digital marketing efforts. While margins can be slim due to high shipping costs, you can succeed by offering unique designs and targeting niche markets.
Dive into our blog for expert insights, tips, and resources. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, our knowledge base is here to support your success.
With Podbase, you can achieve profit margins that are up to 100% higher compared to any other POD providers.
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